Monday, November 2, 2009

Meet Gypsy!

May I introduce to you my mare, Gypsy! Gypsy is a Canadian Horse (Cheval Canadien). She is about 12 years old, 15.2 hh and is the sweetest girl a horse lover could ever dream of. We sealed the deal on her yesterday afternoon. Riding her in the photos is my friend and owner of the stable where Gypsy will live (just under 20 minutes from my house so you KNOW I'll be practically living at the barn!)

I'm so excited. This is a lifelong dream of mine, not unlike many little girls, to own, care for, ride and maintain a horse. I feel like a 10 year old (just add 45 years to that number!)

If you are interested in horses I'll give you an extremely brief description of the Canadian horse. The Canadian Horse is a little known national treasure of Canada. This hardy breed descended from horses originally sent to the “New World” by King Louis XIV of France in the late 1600’s. These Norman and Breton horses were felt to be of Arab, Andalusian and Barb ancestry – traits of which can still be recognized in the Canadian Horse today.For hundreds of years, the French horses bred with little influence from outside breeds. They eventually developed into their own distinct breed - the Canadian Horse or Cheval Canadien. Because they evolved under the adverse conditions of harsh weather, scarce food, and hard work, the Canadian Horse remains the sturdiest and most acclimatized horse in Canada today. They are tough, strong horses, tolerant of inclement weather conditions, and are extremely “easy keepers”. Because of these traits, the Canadian Horse is often referred to as “The Little Iron Horse”.

No stamping, card making or sewing today. I just had to introduce you to my new horse, Gypsy.

I am so waiting for the family portrait ~ you, Paul and the ENTIRE menagerie!! She's a beauty. Please ride safely and make sure your saddle is properly cinched ~ don't ask me why I say this, however it could possibly be a contributing factor to some of my quirks...